David Duane Wilson

David Wilson passed away on January 27th 2022, at age 68. Very suddenly, he left a loving family that included his wife, Judith Faye, two daughters, Amanda Goodrich (James) and Alexa Heffling (Andrew), and 4½ grandchildren, Ethan (17), Avery (17), Lucas (12), Belle Amanda (6), and a soon-to-be little girl. David was also survived by his four siblings, Mickey Wilson (Terry), Steve Wilson, Dena Bechtle (Craig), and Diane Chamou. His legacy includes many beloved nieces, nephews, and a myriad of cousins and close friends. David was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret (Kirkpatrick) Wilson and his father, Melvin Wilson, along with both maternal and paternal grandparents.

David was born in Estherville, Iowa on December 1st, 1953. He grew up in a small two bedroom home (stuffed with five siblings, two parents, and a Chihuahua) on the south side of Des Moines, Iowa. Focusing on printing and technology, he graduated from the Des Moines Central Technical High School in 1978. His first professional job was working at a local printing plant. He was then hired at Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance at their in-house printing facility. As his career with Wellmark evolved, he became the manager of the Printing Department. He continued his employment at what is now called Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance for the rest of his career. By the time he retired, he was working in the Facilities Management Department. This job included learning the CAD technology program to design, construct, and office-place all of the company’s employees state-wide. After 32 years with the company, he retired shortly after completing Wellmark’s extensive move to their new facility in downtown Des Moines.

Although quick to share a laugh, a conversation, or a funny story, David was actually a quiet and private man. He did not offer much detail about himself to others outside of his family. His personal philosophy was based on a “need to know” principle. However, if pressed, he actually was very philosophical, eloquent, observant, and witty. David told great stories and loved to share great jokes. Many of the witticisms he took credit for telling were from conversations with his clever wife, Judith. He also gave great speeches, particularly at his daughters’ weddings. He was adored by many and made friends easily through his passions and hobbies.

He loved movies and television shows with adventure, comedy, and international intrigue. He loved animals, and he and Judy shared their home with many beloved dogs. He loved nature and being outside. He was an avid hunter of turkeys, pheasants, and deer. He loved playing golf, especially with his brother, Steve, and Steve’s sons. He loved farmer’s markets and gardens, and his backyard was lush with flowers every summer. He loved reading military books. He loved Italian food, especially pizza and lasagna. He loved chocolate chip cookies, apple pie, and donuts. He loved classic rock and blues. He loved the Iowa Hawkeyes. He loved camouflage clothing, gadgets, and every type of tool ever invented. He adored cuddly dogs. He loved his grandchildren. He absolutely adored his wife, and he intensely loved his family. David Duane Wilson will be greatly missed, and he will live in our memories forever.

If you are moved to send a note to share your thoughts or your favorite David story with the family, you may send cards to Judith Stephens-Wilson, c/o Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266.

In lieu of donations to the family, please choose one of your favorite charities to support in David’s honor. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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